Mikkel Christensen
Russia has taken another step to tighten control over its digital space, introducing new restrictions on satellite communication equipment.
Russia has taken another step to tighten control over its digital space, introducing new restrictions on satellite communication equipment.
The move signals a broader effort to limit access to global networks.
Officials present the measure as part of national security efforts, while critics see it as a deepening of digital isolation.
Ban expands control
Russia has prohibited the import of foreign satellite communication devices, including Starlink terminals, the Kyiv Post reported.
The new rules apply to radio-electronic equipment capable of transmitting or receiving signals from foreign satellites, including dual-use systems that can serve both civilian and military purposes.
Under the decree, such devices now require approval from the State Commission for Radio Frequencies, significantly tightening oversight.
Disruptions increase
The move follows a series of internet disruptions across the country over the past year.
Authorities have repeatedly shut down mobile internet since May 2025, citing efforts to counter Ukrainian drone activity and protect critical infrastructure.
Research group Top10VPN estimates that outages affected nearly the entire population in 2025, with more than 37,000 hours of cumulative downtime.
Censorship models studied
Separate reporting from Reuters suggests Russian officials have explored internet control systems used in China and Iran.
These include large-scale filtering and shutdown capabilities, which could inform future policy as Moscow builds a more controlled digital framework.
Toward restricted web
Analysts warn the country may be moving toward a far more limited online environment.
RKS Global has indicated Russia could introduce a “whitelist” system by 2028, allowing access only to pre-approved websites.
For businesses, this could mean losing access to international platforms, cloud services and communication tools, while individuals may face tighter restrictions on information and services available online.
Political reaction grows
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen criticised the policy, linking it to broader economic pressures tied to the war in Ukraine.
“With inflation increasing and interest rates skyrocketing, the consequences of Russia’s war of choice are also being paid for out of Russian people’s pockets,” she said.
“So much so that the Kremlin responds… by restricting the internet and free communication.”
She added that Russians now “feel that they live behind an Iron Curtain again – this time a digital Iron Curtain.”
Sources: Kyiv Post, Reuters, Top10VPN
